Is the BMW 320i imported or domestically produced?
3 Answers
The BMW 320i is imported. Taking the 2021 BMW 320i as an example, its body structure is a four-door, five-seater sedan with dimensions of 4719mm in length, 1827mm in width, and 1459mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2851mm and a fuel tank capacity of 59 liters. The 2021 BMW 320i features a front suspension with a double-joint spring strut front axle and a rear suspension with a multi-link independent suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 156PS, a maximum torque of 250Nm, and a maximum power of 115kW, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
I previously conducted specialized research on the production origins of the BMW 320i. Simply put, this model has both domestically produced and imported versions, depending primarily on the specific production year and sales region. The domestic version is manufactured by BMW Brilliance at its Shenyang plant, with localization of the 3 Series beginning after BMW Brilliance's establishment in 2003. The imported version is typically produced at BMW's original German factory, especially before 2012 when most 3 Series models in the domestic market were imported vehicles. Distinguishing between them is straightforward: models with the 'BMW Brilliance' badge on the rear are domestically produced, while those without are imported. The domestic version is significantly more affordable and features configurations better aligned with Chinese consumer preferences, such as the long-wheelbase variant which is exclusively produced domestically, whereas the imported version has a more sport-tuned suspension. Both versions are commonly found in the used car market today, so buyers should carefully check the vehicle identification plate information.
The BMW 320i is quite an interesting car. I've noticed in car clubs that many people can't tell whether it's domestically produced or imported. Actually, both versions exist. For instance, the newer models are mostly domestically manufactured by BMW Brilliance in Shenyang, but the imported version has always been available. The way to distinguish them is simple: open the door and check the nameplate. The domestic version will indicate the Shenyang plant, while the imported ones usually show Munich or Dingolfing plants. I've driven both versions—the domestic model indeed offers more rear legroom and cheaper maintenance, whereas the imported version has more precise steering but longer waits for parts. I remember the 2015 batch imported from Germany had exceptional quality, and their used car prices remain high even now. If you're buying new, dealerships mostly sell the domestic version; for original imports, you'd need to approach parallel importers.
